MP Pooja Chaudhary Highlights Severe Shortage of Medicines and Vaccines in Government Health Institutions

Kathmandu. Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP), Nepal MP Pooja Chaudhary has drawn the government's attention to the severe shortage of medicines and vaccines in government health institutions. Speaking at the National Assembly meeting on Thursday, MP Chaudhary drew the government's attention to the existing problems in the health sector. Presenting data from the World Health Organization (WHO), MP Chaudhary stated that about 24.9 percent of Nepal's citizens face financial difficulties due to having to spend from their own pockets for treatment. She mentioned that due to the delay in the procurement process in government health institutions, there is a shortage of iron tablets and rabies vaccines required for pregnant women, new mothers, and adolescent girls. Expressing concern over the increasing risk of snakebites with the onset of summer and monsoon in Madhesh Province, she demanded that the government provide details on how many vials of anti-snake venom are available in which hospitals and treatment centers in Madhesh Province. She also urged for the assurance of ventilators, critical care, and skilled manpower for patients with severe snakebites. Speaking about the actual situation of snakebite treatment, MP Chaudhary said, 'The availability of anti-snake venom in government health centers is extremely low. When one center runs out of medicine, the patient's life is at risk due to the need to bring it from another center.' MP Chaudhary alerted the government and concerned bodies to strengthen national unity while preserving Nepal's rich diversity, culture, and traditions.